I had never tried matcha in a tea room before, so I asked for some tips on how to enjoy it from the staff at Kominka-san. They offer a tea experience where you can learn how to prepare matcha, but I was just there to enjoy it. The set menu includes hojicha, tea sweets, matcha, and Japanese sweets for 1350 yen. The tea sweets and snacks were all homemade. The matcha was served in three different types, and I chose the "Matsukaze" which had a nice balance of bitterness and a refreshing aftertaste. Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture. The tea room was lovely and the matcha was delicious.

Hojicha and matcha, traditional Japanese sweets, and matcha. There is nothing flashy about them, but each item is carefully prepared. Making delicious hojicha seems simple but is actually difficult. It has a fragrant aroma and a refreshing astringency, making it very delicious. The choice of tea snacks is also good. Handmade traditional Japanese sweets. They are simple yet have a sense of novelty. You can feel the host's sincerity in wanting to entertain guests with homemade sweets. And matcha. I remembered the words of the grand master, "Tea should not be too hot or too cold." Tea is said to reflect a person, and you can feel the host's heart through the tea. Matcha has a strong flavor and a subtle sweetness that comes later. A friend was shocked, saying, "What kind of matcha have I been drinking until now?" Nowadays, many people in the tea ceremony world focus too much on the formalities, flashy performances, or showing off their utensils. They tend to overlook the essence of making delicious tea. It is wonderful to see someone sincerely engage with tea in this modern age. Those who teach tea ceremony rarely drink matcha outside of tea gatherings. But I believe it is necessary to come here. Rather than attending a grand tea gathering, wouldn't it be more valuable to enjoy matcha here? It may take time for Kino Hana to be recognized, but once it is, it will surely become a place where reservations are hard to come by. The casual atmosphere allows various people to enjoy matcha here, and I would be happy to see that continue, even if more customers come. However, my only concern is that even with all this effort, the prices are too low.

In the cold month of January in Kyoto, after visiting Chion-in Temple, I searched online for a place to enjoy matcha tea and found this shop. With the help of GPS, I made my way there. The shop is located in the middle of a shopping street, and has a light and inviting atmosphere. The owner, dressed in a kimono, warmly welcomed us and guided us to our table. We ordered the premium matcha set, which helped us warm up from the cold. The set included plum and kelp tea, matcha, various homemade sweets, roasted green tea, a steamed bun, and ginger hot water (as a kind gesture). The sweets were simple and delicious, made fresh daily by the owner. It was heartwarming to see the owner living their dream in their own unique way. My companion and I were inspired by their story, as we are still on our own journey towards our dreams. Thank you for the wonderful meal!

With a calm heart, try looking into the distance, noticing things you may have overlooked, and feeling the warmth of something precious. Why not relax a little with a cup of tea? ●Ameshizuku Overflowing emotions carry the scent of rain, gently enveloping the world. The feeling of loving you tints the soft rain purple. In the purple rain. I painted a rainbow blooming at the edge of the world in my heart, dreaming of your smile. ※Inside the round-shaped, soft rice cake is smooth sweet bean paste. On top, the gentle fragrance of purple sweet potato and white sweet bean paste. A creative Japanese confectionery that suits the word "adorable". The cherry blossoms fluttered. It was a lovely affection like a shower of cherry blossoms. ●Apricot The sun's smile dancing in the light melts into the sea. Sparkling eternity. Today shining in the memories, beautifully forever. I wished to the sea breeze that this happiness of gazing with you would continue forever, tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, and beyond. ※A fluffy and moist cheesecake like a soufflé. The sweet apricot mixed in and the sparkling apricot glaze were wonderful. Tea enjoyment expands, doesn't it? To say without fear of misunderstanding, it's normal in Kyoto. No, just a regular Kyoto. The atmosphere that seems to be good if it continues, and the determination of the shop owner who wishes it to continue. That atmosphere. Without pretense, without being stiff, just earnestly. Without forgetting humility, as much as you like what you like. So, on your walk, casually pass through the noren and feel free to visit like a neighbor. Just like a neighbor, feel free. A cup of tea and peace for your daily life. For more, visit the blog on a whim. ●Imaginary Cafe X http://kaeldesign.blogspot.com/search/label/Conohana

◆◆The Truth About Matcha!◆◆ When you come to Kyoto and think, "I want to drink some matcha," you see the word matcha everywhere at tourist spots. However, did you know that matcha served at traditional cafes is often made using a blender? Matcha and hot water are blended together in a blender, and voila! But it's not just about creating froth. The hot water makes it bitter, the aroma dissipates, and the matcha loses its flavor. In other places, matcha is simply mixed in a paper cup with hot water using a whisk, and then poured into a makeshift tea bowl. The matcha clumps remain, and it's lukewarm, making it hard to drink. Even at famous matcha parfait shops, the staff may not be experienced in preparing matcha properly. If you think this is what matcha is supposed to taste like because you had it in Kyoto, you might be mistaken. 【"Doesn't it taste the same no matter who prepares it?" No, it's actually the opposite!】The person preparing the matcha is crucial because of its simplicity. ★★"Bitter. Grassy. Weak." are Lies about Matcha★★ Even in Kyoto, there are hardly any shops where you can drink authentic matcha. (I recommend Gion Rakuraku. It's not on the menu, but they will prepare it for you if you ask after your meal. *Maybe only for regular customers??) The owner of Komonohana is young, but his knowledge and dedication to preparing delicious matcha are impressive. Since learning from him, my fundamental preparation method has changed significantly. Throughout the shop, you can feel the owner's dedication and hospitality, and each cup of matcha is prepared with care. After enjoying a cup, you'll want another. I never expected to be so moved by matcha. If you don't want to get hooked on matcha, definitely don't visit this place. (laughs)